HALLISEY, Marlene “Mars” Judith

March 21, 1939 — June 15, 2023

Mars passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, June 15, 2023.  She now joins her love Neal (predeceased August 5, 2022) to continue on many more great adventures together.  Mars will be lovingly missed by her sons Corey and Jason (Samantha), her granddaughter Olivia, as well as her many family members and close friends.  Mars was predeceased by her sister Faith.

Mars grew up in Kelowna, the eldest of 5 siblings with her brother Bob, and sisters Louise, Faith, and Dawn.  She graduated from UBC in Education and set forth on an adventure to Jamaica, initiating her love of travel and adventure, and passion for connecting with people that continued throughout her life.

Mars and Neal spent a few years as a teaching team for the Department of National Defence in Germany at the start of their teaching careers.  This offered the opportunity for exploring throughout Europe, forming friendships that last to this day.

Mars had a strong connection to the water, living on the Lake, traveling to Gabriola & Hornby Islands on spring breaks, and the Big Island of Hawaii for many Februaries over the last 25 years. Her love of Hawaiian flowers, swimming with sea turtles, ‘liberating’ amazing Hawaiian roadside fruits, and collecting clams and oysters on the west coast highlighted many of her days.

Mars was incredibly creative and had a passion for nature and art that was expressed through watercolour paintings; her works are enjoyed world-wide.  Mars was an active member of the Watercolour Guild and shared her expertise and talent with many.  She always wanted her art to inspire others to pick up a brush.  Her ability to connect with people and see the light and positivity in everything around her was immense.

At Mars’ request, there will be no service or flowers.  We give heartfelt thanks to Dr. Dan Obedkoff for his care and compassion throughout the years, to LeeAnne Lehman for her care & support, and to the staff and residents at MissionWood Retirement Resort for making Mars feel like family.

PS: Mars had just finished compiling a book of her watercolour paintings. Click here to view it online, or scan the QR code below.  If you’d like a hard copy of the book, please contact her son Corey at hallisey@gmail.com

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.